Menu
11/05/2004
Hoon promises to act against 'abuse' soldiers
The government will "not hesitate to act" where British troops are found to have failed to uphold the Geneva Convention and International Humanitarian Law, the Defence secretary has said.
Speaking in the Commons yesterday, Geoff Hoon told MPs that all allegations of improper behaviour – allegedly depicted in controversial photographs published by the Daily Mirror – would be investigated.
The Defence Secretary went on to apologise unreservedly on behalf of the British government to any Iraqis who may have been mistreated.
"We will not hesitate to act where these high standards are not followed, and we will investigate when serious allegations are brought to our attention," he said.
Two cases have already reached an advanced stage with decisions on prosecution pending, MPs heard.
Mr Hoon also said that 33 investigations mentioned by Armed Forces Minister Adam Ingram in a statement to Parliament last week were not begun in response to reports by the International Committee of the Red Cross or Amnesty International, or as the result of media pressure.
"We investigate ourselves through the Royal Military Police Special Investigations Branch immediately evidence is brought to hand," he said.
He said the government were determined to see through the task in Iraq according to standards of behaviour set out in the Geneva Convention and in International Humanitarian Law.
(gmcg)
Speaking in the Commons yesterday, Geoff Hoon told MPs that all allegations of improper behaviour – allegedly depicted in controversial photographs published by the Daily Mirror – would be investigated.
The Defence Secretary went on to apologise unreservedly on behalf of the British government to any Iraqis who may have been mistreated.
"We will not hesitate to act where these high standards are not followed, and we will investigate when serious allegations are brought to our attention," he said.
Two cases have already reached an advanced stage with decisions on prosecution pending, MPs heard.
Mr Hoon also said that 33 investigations mentioned by Armed Forces Minister Adam Ingram in a statement to Parliament last week were not begun in response to reports by the International Committee of the Red Cross or Amnesty International, or as the result of media pressure.
"We investigate ourselves through the Royal Military Police Special Investigations Branch immediately evidence is brought to hand," he said.
He said the government were determined to see through the task in Iraq according to standards of behaviour set out in the Geneva Convention and in International Humanitarian Law.
(gmcg)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
09 September 2003
Tories seek answers on Iraq ‘shambles’
Plans revealed yesterday by Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon to send another 1,200 British soldiers to bolster operations in Iraq have been slammed by Tories. Conservatives have described the Government’s policy as a “shambles” and will be pressing ministers today on what detailed plans are in place to reconstruct post-war Iraq.
Tories seek answers on Iraq ‘shambles’
Plans revealed yesterday by Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon to send another 1,200 British soldiers to bolster operations in Iraq have been slammed by Tories. Conservatives have described the Government’s policy as a “shambles” and will be pressing ministers today on what detailed plans are in place to reconstruct post-war Iraq.
06 January 2010
Brown Ballot 'Plot' Underway
Former Cabinet allies of the Prime Minister have proposed holding a secret ballot on his leadership, it emerged today. Ex-ministers Geoff Hoon and Patricia Hewitt's move came as a shock within political circles this afternoon, with many expecting a General Election to be called within weeks.
Brown Ballot 'Plot' Underway
Former Cabinet allies of the Prime Minister have proposed holding a secret ballot on his leadership, it emerged today. Ex-ministers Geoff Hoon and Patricia Hewitt's move came as a shock within political circles this afternoon, with many expecting a General Election to be called within weeks.
06 January 2012
Britain To Be The Best Place In The World For Science
Universities and Science Minister, David Willetts will has set out an ambition to make Britain the best place in the world for science.
Britain To Be The Best Place In The World For Science
Universities and Science Minister, David Willetts will has set out an ambition to make Britain the best place in the world for science.
18 October 2011
Fox 'Broke Ministerial Code' Report Will Say
A Government report is expected to find that former Defence Secretary Liam Fox broke the Ministerial Code in his dealings with his friend Adam Werritty, However, the report, being compiled by Cabinet Secretary Sir Gus O'Donnell, is also expected to claim Mr Fox did not gain financially from the arrangements or his controversial dealings and trips t
Fox 'Broke Ministerial Code' Report Will Say
A Government report is expected to find that former Defence Secretary Liam Fox broke the Ministerial Code in his dealings with his friend Adam Werritty, However, the report, being compiled by Cabinet Secretary Sir Gus O'Donnell, is also expected to claim Mr Fox did not gain financially from the arrangements or his controversial dealings and trips t
19 January 2010
Hoon Faces Iraq Inquiry
Former defence secretary Geoff Hoon has insisted finding a diplomatic resolution in Iraq was always the Government's first priority. Appearing before an inquiry into the war, Mr Hoon said no affirmative decisions were taken on the eventual invasion until the backing of MPs was granted.
Hoon Faces Iraq Inquiry
Former defence secretary Geoff Hoon has insisted finding a diplomatic resolution in Iraq was always the Government's first priority. Appearing before an inquiry into the war, Mr Hoon said no affirmative decisions were taken on the eventual invasion until the backing of MPs was granted.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
